2013 NCAA Football Features

Each Monday, WhatIfSports.com's NCAA college football simulation engine will provide you with game predictions for every D-1 FBS game that upcoming week. The college football simulation engine generates detailed information for each game including each team's chances of winning (Win%) and the average points scored for both teams. Make sure to share the college football information you gained here with your friends by either checking out our NCAA football widgets on the WhatIf To Go page or clicking on the social networking share bar at the top and bottom of this article.

The statistical inputs to the thousands of college football simulations are based on rigorous analysis of each team's roster, depth charts and statistically based player rankings. Roster modifications are made in cases of injury or suspension and those players are removed from their team's game simulation for that week.

Game of the Week: Texas A&M at LSU

Johnny Manziel's quest for a second Heisman Trophy is in full swing. The Texas A&M signal caller is on pace to submit a resume every bit as impressive as his 2012 campaign. Consider Manziel's per-game averages compared to last season:

Manziel's Per-Game Passing Stats

Year

CMP/G

ATT/G

PCT

YDS/G

TD/G

INT/G

RAT

2013

23.0

31.5

73.0

331.3

3.1

1.1

186.9

2012

22.7

33.4

68.0

285.1

2.0

0.69

155.3

As a passer, Manziel's improvement is considerable. Despite comparable attempts and completions, he's averaging 45 more passing yards per game and finding the end zone at a higher rate. Once considered a questionable pro prospect, Manziel's aerial improvements have ensured that an NFL team will readily give him an opportunity at the next level.

As a rusher, however, Manziel's output has dropped this season:

Manziel's Per-Game Rushing Stats

Year

ATT/G

YDS/G

AVG

TD/G

2013

11.0

61.1

5.6

0.8

2012

15.5

108.5

7.0

1.6

A few factors can be credited to the decline, including Manziel's reliance on his improved arm, an effort to avoid injury and a weakened offensive line that no longer has Luke Joeckel, drafted No. 2 overall in the NFL Draft. While Manziel's running game has dipped in both frequency and potency, he still ranks 10th among quarterbacks in total rushing yards. Additionally, the decline has been offset by the aforementioned improvements in his passing game. In fact, Manziel generated 393.5 yards per game of total offense in 2012. This year, he's accumulating 392.4 yards per game. Meanwhile, his total touchdowns have risen from 3.6 per game in 2012 to 3.9 this season.

Perhaps the biggest knock against Manziel's Heisman campaign is the lack of a marquee win. Insert LSU. A victory against the ranked Tigers in Death Valley could represent a significant boon for Manziel's candidacy.

It will be no small feat, though. LSU enters the game as a four-point favorite and has yet to lose at home this season. The Tigers have only suffered two home defeats since 2008, both to No. 1-ranked opponents.

While this isn't LSU's most formidable squad, the Tigers are balanced on both sides of the ball. Behind the arm of Zach Mettenberger, LSU generates more than 275 passing yards per game, 31st in the nation. Jeremy Hill (964 yards, 13 scores) leads a ground game ranked 52nd. Defensively, the Tigers hold opponents to 23.5 points per game and are especially stout against the pass, surrendering 200 yards per outing, 17th-best nationally.

The Aggies counter with a turbo-charged offense that ranks sixth nationally in passing yards and 33rd in rushing yards. Texas A&M struggles defensively though, ranking 91st against the pass, 106th against the rush and 87th in points allowed.